Janata Dal (United) leader and former Rajya Sabha MP KC Tyagi on Tuesday announced his decision to quit the party, ANI reported. The development comes a day after JD(U) chief and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was elected to the Rajya Sabha from the state. Kumar
The Uttar Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (UPMSP) is set to commence the evaluation process for the classes 10th and 12th examinations starting tomorrow, March 18. Over 54 lakh students had appeared for the examination this year. After the evaluation of UP Board exam papers is complete
Meta Platforms shares rose nearly 3% on Monday after a Reuters report that the social media giant plans to lay off 20% or more of its workforce to offset heavy spending on artificial intelligence and bet on productivity gains from the technology. If Meta settles on the 20% figure
AB de Villiers has proposed that MS Dhoni should elevate his batting position within the Chennai Super Kings lineup. On another note, Anil Kumble has endorsed the idea of integrating Sanju Samson into the team's leadership structure, praising his stellar form and rapport with supporters
Oncologist explains why women are more likely to get thyroid cancer, shares 5 warning signs: Voice changes, lump in neckHear from an oncologist on why women are more vulnerable to this type of cancer than men, and what are some signs that can help one stay alert. Published on: Mar 17
New Renault Duster: Renault has launched the all-new Duster in India at a starting price of Rs 10.49 lakh. The top-end variant goes up to Rs 18.49 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi. 2026 Renault Duster: Renault has launched the all-new Duster in India at a starting price of Rs 10.49 lakh
Sourav Ganguly joins TMC rumours: Sourav Ganguly has officially quashed rumours of his political entry ahead of West Bengal's upcoming Assembly elections. His office stated these claims are entirely baseless. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India is implementing robust
Former MP KC Tyagi quits JD(U)His exit comes amid shifting political currents within the JD(U) and its alliances, and is being viewed in political circles as an indication of possible churn within the party’s senior leadership Published on: Mar 17, 2026 6:01 PM IST By Sanjeev K Jha
Modi Honoured In Addis Ababa: Ethiopia Confers Top Award, Seals Strategic Ties
Addis Ababa Rolls Out Red Carpet For PM Modi: Ethiopia Confers Highest Civilian Honour, Seals Strategic Alliance As India’s Global Ascent Takes Centre Stage
PM Modi becomes the first global leader to receive Ethiopia's highest civilian honour, while India and Ethiopia elevate ties to a strategic partnership, strengthening cooperation across education, security and global diplomacy.
Addis Ababa: Beginning a new chapter in India-Africa relations, Ethiopia conferred its highest civilian honour, The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit on Tuesday (December 16).
With this recognition, PM Modi became the first global head of state or head of government to receive Ethiopia's top award. It added another milestone to his international engagements. The honour also became the 28th foreign state award bestowed upon the Indian prime minister, highlighting the growing global recognition of India's leadership.
The award was presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali during PM Modi's visit to the African nation. Expressing gratitude, PM Modi described the moment as deeply meaningful and dedicated the honour to the people of India.
Add Zee News as a Preferred Source
“Just now, I have been conferred with the highest award of the country – The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia. To be honoured by a very ancient and prosperous civilisation of the world is a matter of great pride for me. On behalf of all Indians, I humbly accept this honour. This award is for all those numerous Indians who shaped our partnership,” the prime minister said.
He also acknowledged the warmth and personal gesture extended by PM Abiy Ahmed Ali, recalling their recent meeting at the G20 Summit in South Africa.
“On this occasion, I also express heartfelt gratitude to my friend PM Abiy Ahmed Ali. Last month, when we met during the G20 Summit in South Africa, with great love and right, you had urged me to visit Ethiopia. How could I have turned down this invitation from my friend, my brother? So, at the first chance, I decided to come to Ethiopia,” he added.
PM Modi highlighted the special role played by educators in strengthening India-Ethiopia ties and spoke with pride about the shared belief in education as a foundation for national progress.
“Had this visit been in accordance with the normal diplomatic process, perhaps it would have taken a lot of time. But your love and affection brought me here just within 24 days,” he said.
“We, in India, have always believed – Knowledge Liberates. Education is the foundation stone of any country. I am proud that in Ethiopia and India relations, the most significant contribution has been from our teachers. Ethiopia's great culture attracted them here and they received the great fortune of preparing several generations here. Even today, several Indian faculty members are serving at Ethiopian universities and higher education institutions,” the prime minister added.
Reflecting on the road ahead, he said the future belongs to partnerships anchored in trust and shared vision. “Together with Ethiopia, we are committed to furthering such partnerships, which can bring forth a solution to evolving global challenges and build new opportunities,” he said.
My remarks during meeting with PM Abiy Ahmed Ali of Ethiopia. @AbiyAhmedAli https://t.co/4FXLEyJtVj — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Later, in a post on X, the Modi reiterated his sentiment, “I'm honoured to be conferred with the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia'. I dedicate it to the 140 crore people of India.”
I'm honoured to be conferred with the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia.' I dedicate it to the 140 crore people of India. https://t.co/qVFdWQgU9r — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
The recognition drew praise from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which described the honour as a moment of national pride. “Pure pride for India. Ethiopia has conferred its highest civilian award, The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, on PM Shri Narendra Modi, making him the first global head of state or government to receive this distinction. This 28th international honour is reflection of India's rising global stature and PM Modi's respected leadership on the world stage. The whole nation celebrates as he dedicates this honour to 140 crore Indians,” the party said in a post on X.
Ethiopia has conferred its highest national honour — The Great Honor, Nishan of Ethiopia on Prime Minister @narendramodi.
With this, PM Modi becomes the first global Head of State or Head of Government to receive this prestigious award, a recognition of India's growing global… pic.twitter.com/XTIkPC6Gy0 — BJP (@BJP4India) December 16, 2025
Beyond ceremonial moments, the visit carried strong diplomatic substance. India and Ethiopia formally elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, a decision Modi said would inject “new energy, new speed and new depth” into ties between the two nations.
“Today, we are elevating India and Ethiopia relations to a strategic partnership. This step will provide our relations with new energy, new speed and new depth,” he said during his meeting with PM Ali.
Highlighting the civilisational continuity between the two countries, Modi said, “India and Ethiopia have had contact, communication and exchange for thousands of years. Our two countries, which are rich in languages and traditions, are symbols of unity in diversity. Both countries are democratic powers committed to peace and the welfare of humanity. We are co-passengers and partners of the Global South.”
He also recalled India's role during its G20 Presidency in strengthening Africa's voice on the global stage. “On international platforms, we have stood shoulder-to-shoulder. The African Union Headquarters in Ethiopia makes Ethiopia the meeting point of African diplomacy. Inspired by the common vision of inclusive world, in 2023, India ensured that the African Union became a G20 member,” he said.
PM Ali welcomed the elevation of ties and spoke about Ethiopia's economic momentum and India's contribution. “Last year, we grew 9.2% and this year we are expecting 10.3% GDP growth. Beside GDP growth, our FDI inflow is also rising big time. India is leading source for FDI. We have more than 615 Indian companies, which are investing in Ethiopia. This gives our cooperation a strong foundation of trust. I think our decision today that we elevate our historic relationship to strategic relationship is the right decision,” he said.
The two sides also exchanged Memoranda of Understanding, reinforcing cooperation across multiple sectors.
Security and counter-terrorism featured prominently in the delegation-level talks. Modi thanked Ethiopia for its solidarity following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
“We express gratitude to you for your sympathies over Pahalgam terrorist attack and for your support in our fight against terrorism,” he said, adding, “The support of friendly nations in our fight against terrorism means a lot.”
The April attack claimed the lives of 26 tourists, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepalese citizen, after which India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror camps operated by the Jaish-e-Mohammed and the Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
PM Modi's arrival in Addis Ababa reflected the warmth of bilateral ties. PM Ali personally received him at the airport and drove him to the hotel, taking him to the Science Museum and Friendship Park along the way in a gesture that was not part of the official itinerary. Upon reaching the hotel, PM Modi was greeted by members of the Indian diaspora with chants, flags, flowers and cultural performances, including a rendition of “Dharti Sunehra Ambar Neela” from the famous Bollywood movie ‘Veer Zaara'.
After welcoming me at Addis Ababa airport, Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali drove me to the Science Museum in the city. This Museum showcases different aspects of science and innovation and how they can be harnessed for Ethiopia's progress.@AbiyAhmedAli pic.twitter.com/BKxxCBfKdk — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Went to the Friendship Park and Friendship Square in Addis Ababa with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.@AbiyAhmedAli pic.twitter.com/BacNmzDlQC — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Received a ceremonial welcome at the National Palace in Addis Ababa. This visit marks another step forward in strengthening the enduring partnership between India and Ethiopia.@AbiyAhmedAli pic.twitter.com/AZjAuMuICL — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Sharing a video of the performance on Instagram, he wrote, “A vibrant welcome in Addis Ababa! Indian songs and music are indeed very popular here.”
In a post on X after landing, the prime minister said, “Landed in Addis Ababa a short while ago. Honoured by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. Ethiopia is a nation with great history and vibrant culture. India and Ethiopia share deep civilisational ties. I look forward to engaging with the Ethiopian leadership to further strengthen our partnership in diverse areas.”
Landed in Addis Ababa a short while ago. Honoured by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. Ethiopia is a nation with great history and vibrant culture. India and Ethiopia share deep civilisational ties. I look forward to engaging with the… pic.twitter.com/VmItBETPKo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Thank you Ethiopia for a welcome that was unforgettable. The Indian community showed remarkable warmth and affection.
India-Ethiopia friendship is going to get even more robust in the times to come.@AbiyAhmedAli pic.twitter.com/hFdc0ztJNa — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for showing me glimpses of Ethiopian history and culture at the National Palace Museum in Addis Ababa. It was a powerful reminder of Ethiopia's rich traditions.@AbiyAhmedAli pic.twitter.com/yQYHbOYrCp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2025
Modi is scheduled to address a Joint Session of the Ethiopian Parliament, highlighting the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Ethiopia since 2011. The visit forms the second leg of his three-nation tour, following Jordan and ahead of Oman, and comes at a time when India prepares to assume the BRICS chairmanship on January 1, 2026.
Ethiopia, which became a full BRICS member in January 2024, is expected to play an important role in guiding discussions on global governance, UN reforms and the future direction of the grouping.
As Addis Ababa decked itself with welcome hoardings and Indian flags, the visit sent a message of renewed momentum, trust and shared purpose between two ancient civilisations moving forward together as partners of the Global South.
Source: ZeeNews
Related Posts: Zoe Saldana becomes highest-grossing leading actor in global box office history PM Modi's Historic Ethiopia Visit Paves The Way For India To Host BRICS 8 big outcomes from PM Modi’s Ethiopia visit India, Ethiopia Share Vision Of Global South Rising For Everyone PM Modi Becomes World’s First Leader to Cross 100 Million Followers on Instagram Mohammed Siraj becomes highest wicket-taker in Tests in 2025 Hyundai Creta becomes highest selling PV across all segments in January–July 2025 period Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar Becomes Highest-Grossing Film Of 2025 Smriti Mandhana becomes 7th-highest run-getter in womens ODIs Dhurandhar Becomes One Of The Highest-Grossing Indian Movie Of All Times
Naseeruddin Shah and Om Puri shared a decades-long friendship and creative partnership, marked by unwavering loyalty, mutual respect, and a shared passion for authentic, groundbreaking cinema. In the memoirs of Indian cinema, few friendships have been as legendary as that of Naseeruddin Shah and
1 hours ago
The controversy surrounding the song ‘Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke’ from the Kannada movie KD: The Devil, featuring Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt, continues to intensify. After the song’s lyrical video went viral on social media, many netizens and celebrities slammed the song’s ‘vulgar’ lyrics
1 hours ago
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will contest from Bhabanipur. She faces BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in a key electoral battle. The Trinamool Congress has released its candidate list for all 294 seats. The upcoming elections are crucial for Banerjee's political future
1 hours ago
A number of festivals are lined up this week, including Eid-ul-Fitr, Chaitra Navratri and Gudi Padwa. As Muslims and Hindus alike look forward to these auspicious festivals, preparations are in full swing to mark the celebrations this year. This week’s festivities begin with Gudi Padwa and
1 hours ago
Joan Laporta was reelected as the president of FC Barcelona for another five years after winning a leadership vote among members of the Spanish soccer powerhouse. Shortly after midnight in Barcelona, the club announced Laporta had won. His only rival, Víctor Font
1 hours ago
The Odisha Congress on Tuesday suspended three of its MLAs for defying the party whip during the recently held Rajya Sabha elections, in a move aimed at enforcing discipline within the party. The suspended legislators — Ramesh Jena, Sofia Firdous and Dasarathi Gamang — were accused of
1 hours ago
US President Donald Trump was cautioned ahead of military action against Iran that Tehran could retaliate against American allies in the Gulf, according to officials familiar with US intelligence assessments. Sources said pre-war briefings had identified Iranian retaliation as a likely scenario
1 hours ago
Akshay Kumar opens up about spooky incident at home: ‘My son pointed at nothing and asked someone to leave…’As he returns to the horror-comedy genre, Akshay Kumar spoke about an eerie experience that once left him shaken Published on: Mar 17
1 hours ago
“Micro dreaming games" are trending on social media, with many claiming they help anxious minds and people with insomnia fall asleep faster. The idea is gaining popularity largely because of how simple it sounds. For anyone who has spent hours staring at the ceiling
1 hours ago
FM Sitharaman’s remarks come amid broader discussions on financial sector health, where overall MSME NPAs remain lower at around 3.6 per cent as of March 2025, compared to Mudra-specific figures. New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reaffirmed the transformative role of the Pradhan
1 hours ago
The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body. From digesting the food we eat to filtering toxins from the blood, it performs hundreds of essential functions that keep the body running smoothly. However, modern lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits have led to a rise in serious
1 hours ago
Vivo T5x 5G Price In India: The smartphone supports 5G, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi, GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and a USB Type-C port. The phone also includes sensors like an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, e-compass, gyroscope, and proximity sensor
1 hours ago
Mustard oil is one of those kitchen staples you rarely question. It sits on the shelf, gets heated till it smokes, and finds its way into everything from tadkas to pickles. But lately, there’s been a growing unease around what exactly is going into that bottle
1 hours ago
The National Investigation Agency has arrested seven foreign citizens on charges of conspiring to carry out terrorist activities against India, ThePrint reported on Monday. While six of them are Ukrainians, one is from the United States, The Indian Express reported
1 hours ago
As West Bengal gears up for assembly elections, the Trinamool Congress announced its candidate list, a critical exercise to maintain dominance after 15 years. The party focused on balancing experience with youth, analyzing local equations and feedback to counter anti-incumbency and ensure
1 hours ago
Eid is a time of celebration, togetherness, and sharing delicious food with loved ones. This festive season, add a special touch to your Eid table with flavorful and nourishing recipes made with nuts, offering the perfect balance of taste, tradition, and festive indulgence
1 hours ago
China announced emergency humanitarian assistance for Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq, aiming to alleviate the severe humanitarian crisis in the region. The foreign ministry expressed deep sympathy for affected populations, emphasizing the ongoing conflict's devastating impact
1 hours ago
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had arrested seven foreign nationals, six Ukrainians and one American for allegedly providing terrorist training to insurgent groups in Myanmar to carry out attacks in northeast India. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had a major breakthrough on March
1 hours ago
If you love Korean cuisine, these K-dramas are a must-watchIf you love to savour Korean cuisines, these K-dramas featuring food as the main character are definitely a must-watch. Updated on: Mar 17, 2026 5:14 PM IST By Anukriti Srivastava Share via Copy link Korean dramas have taken the world by
1 hours ago
A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Cuba early on Tuesday (March 17, 2026), the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said. The quake hit at a depth of 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles) about 49 kilometers south-southwest of Cuba's easternmost municipality of Maisi at 12:28 a.m.
1 hours ago
In the third week of the joint US-Israeli war against Iran, Donald Trump faces decisions that could define the rest of his presidency. But if the American commander-in-chief is grappling with a war of choice that seems in danger of spiralling in ways he can't control
1 hours ago
‘I want Nayanthara’: AIADMK MP remarks while criticising Stalin at women safety rally stokes controversyWhile participating in the party's protest against the DMK dispensation in Villupuram , Shanmugam, a former state minister remarked "I want Nayanthara''. Published on: Mar 17
1 hours ago
All Indian Cine Workers Association demands ban on Nora Fatehi song Sarke Chunar, FIR against producersThe All Indian Cine Workers Association has said that songs such as Sarke Chunar with vulgar and double-meaning content is unacceptable in Indian cinema. Mar 17, 2026
1 hours ago
With the press of a button Rs 2,000 is being credited to each beneficiary farmers' account on 13 March 2026. New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi on Friday (13 March 2026) released the 22nd installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme in Guwahati, Assam
1 hours ago
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz claimed on Tuesday that the Iranian security chief Ali Larijani has been killed. The Israeli defence minister’s statement came over two weeks after the United States and Israel launched an attack on the Iranian government on February 28
1 hours ago
Congress expels Sofia Firdous, 2 other Odisha MLAs for voting for BJP in Rajya Sabha electionsSofia Firdous, a first-time MLA, showed disagreement with her party before voting, particularly over the decision to back the the Biju Janata Dal. Updated on: Mar 17
1 hours ago
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) released the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 answer key last week. The objection window for the provisional answer key has closed, and candidates are eagerly awaiting their results. According to media reports
1 hours ago
